Angulo Slams Independiente Board: “A Relationship Was Broken”

Colombian defender Álvaro Angulo cast a shadow over Independiente’s Copa Argentina win by delivering a scathing critique of the club’s leadership amid speculation about a potential transfer to Mexico’s Pumas UNAM.

As reported by TyC Sports, Angulo didn't deny his possible exit but was visibly upset over how club executives handled the situation. “The club never protected me. That’s what frustrates me. A relationship was broken, and they didn’t know how to manage things,” he said after scoring the match-winning goal against Gimnasia de Mendoza.

Though a $3.5 million move to Pumas is on the table, Angulo refused to clarify his future: “I can’t say whether I’m staying or leaving. I’m still training, still here, and ready for whatever comes.”

He also lashed out at the media for spreading what he called false information, including claims that he had skipped training or agreed to a lucrative contract abroad. “No journalist investigated. I couldn’t enjoy time with my family. Everything became chaotic,” he said.

Despite the controversy, Angulo emphasized his commitment to the team: “I respect the fans, and I always give 100%. I’m sad about what’s been said, but now it’s time to move on.”

Head coach Julio Vaccari backed his player unequivocally, calling him “100 percent professional and 100 percent human” and blaming the media for tarnishing Angulo’s reputation. “It’s easy to smear a footballer. What’s hard is clearing his name afterward,” he said, acknowledging that the player could still leave soon.

With tensions running high, Angulo’s future at Independiente remains uncertain—but his criticism has already shaken the club to its core.